Bridges often go unnoticed, their function is essential to modern America. In the 1850's covered wagons heading West had to ford streams or rivers. Without adequate bridges in place, the pioneers would sometimes travel many miles to find a safe place to cross a river. Other times they waited for days or weeks for flooded rivers to recede to the point where they were safe to cross.  
Early bridges consisted mainly of logs that had fallen or were placed across rivers. Moving heavy loads across them was often impossible.  
Consider how long it would take to cross a river today if bridges were not included in the road system which include bridges? What would happen to the economy as we know it in our society?  
There will be various internet projects that students can carry out at home or at the public library concerning bridges. Some of these will be extra credit while others will be required. (see assignments)  
 
There are alot of things that I could put in this section; however we do not have that much time to discuss it.  

Posted by: charliecaldwell